Go to Live-Blogging of the Oscars here beginning at 5 PM Pacific Time.
SUNDAY 3 PM Pacific Time: Above is a celebrity stand-in during Red Carpet rehearsals for the 80th Academy Awards telecast Sunday (photo by Jonathan Alcorn). Now the real Red Carpet arrivals are starting. I hear that ABC dramatically lowered expectations about tonight's TV ratings to advertisers. It will be interesting to see the Nielsen's, as the rain-postponed NASCAR Sprint Cup Series - Auto Club 550 race in Fontana is just about to restart at Lap 20 with a total of 300. After that there is another NASCAR race, the Nationwide series - Stater Bros 300, that is 200 laps. Will America tune out NASCAR to watch the Oscars? Meanwhile, a London source tells me that the BBC did a call in on the Oscars and no one phoned. Even Hollywood interest in the show is at its lowest point in recent memory. This may be the 80th Academy Awards, but they're really the 11th hour Oscars -- because not only were they almost picketed by the writers strike, and put together with only 13 days of major preparations instead of the usual months and months, but also the endless ceremony always seems like it lasts 11 hours.
PREDICTIONS: Two things I can forecast already about the show: George Clooney (who's on Time magazine's cover as "The Last Movie Star") will be fawned over and fussed over, just like he was to an embarrassing degree on the Red Carpet today. Regis Philbin Regis Philbin slobbered to George Clooney how everybody wants to be the actor and compared him to Cary Grant. Clooney replied that Grant is dead. Sure, George has no prayer of winning an Oscar tonight. But Clooneymania is such a cult now that it's giving Obamania a run for its fainting spells. And there'll be a lot of inside jokes about the writers strike and the possible actors strike that no one outside of Burbank and Broadway can comprehend. Meanwhile, the presenters and performers should come with their own personal chyron explanations of who they are, like Miley Cyrus. Yes, many this year are that obscure because the Big Names couldn't get it together in just two weeks to show up inside the Kodak Theatre instead of outside on a picket line. That's just one reason why the show needs a total facelift, not just Botox. But that's another article...
Handicapping this year's Best Motion Picture Of the Year or many other categories is about as tough as picking the Superbowl winner after the big game is already held. Of course, No Country For Old Men will get the Oscar. Of course, Daniel Day Lewis will be named Best Actor In A Leading Role. Of course, Javier Bardem will win Best Actor In A Supporting Role.
But it's probably a 50-50 toss-up between Julie Christie and Marion Cotillard for Best Actress In A Leading Role. The members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences skew geriatric, so in this case the voters probably went for Julie whom many know from years past. They also like the way she's been hanging in there -- not just because she's still finding roles at her age, which is hard because of Hollywood's rampant ageism and sexism, or because she's doing films that actually say something, but also because she survived Warren Beatty.
As for Performance By An Actress In A Supporting Role, always the wild card category, most believe Cate Blanchett will win for playing Bob Dylan since cross-gender stunt casting usually guarantees an Oscar. (Hilary Swank and Linda Hunt can vouch for that.) But Cate won this category fairly recently, and if sentimentality holds, then Ruby Dee can win just like she did at the SAG awards. But a lot of Academy voters like to encourage young actresses, and many liked Gone Baby Gone more than they thought they would so Amy Ryan (hey, 40ish is young to them) could win as well. Personally, I'd like Ruby Dee to grab the gold, but I suspect Cate will.
Finally, I'm going out on a limb and predicting that Paul Thomas Anderson will win Best Director instead of the Coen brothers. My reasoning is: no one in Hollywood actually likes the Coen brothers. (Two past examples: Lauren Bacall and Eddie Murphy.) Besides, Oscar voters like to spread the wealth around. 'Nuff said.
A chilly rain fell off and on so the Red Carpet has been tented. Nerves are still frayed from the writers strike just ended. 
Panic is setting in about an actors strike that may be on the way. Few in America or the world have seen the nominated pics and performances. There's no suspense because Hollywood has long ago guessed who and what will probably win. The vast majority of the presenters aren't big names. And not only has the host done it before to really poor ratings, but Jon Stewart couldn't even find anything funny to say about it while guesting on Larry King Live. So, all in all, I think everyone should expect the Worst Oscars Ever In The History Of Hollywood. Really, Sunday can't come fast enough to put this beleaguered 80th Academy Awards which almost was picketed into oblivion out of its misery. Nevertheless, I have some scoops to share about what to expect on the ABC show produced by the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences which bestows the Oscars inside Hollywood's Kodak Theatre:
-- Despite speculation that somehow The Daily Show's Stewart will work in this year's presidential candidates into his opening, I'm told no politicians of any stripe are scheduled to appear even though John McCain did a cameo in the 2005 Vince Vaughn-Owen Wilson laugher Wedding Crashers. ("But we do have Miley Cyrus and The Rock," one insider wisecracked.)
-- Thankfully there will be no shadow puppets, last year's worst Oscars idea!
-- Led by Gil Cates, the Hollywood team that puts on the Academy Awards show was trying to shoot another montage with Jon Stewart and various movie stars. "But it proved too hard to write, cast, shoot and edit in 16 days, what with the rest of the show to take care of," an insider confided to me, referring to the sudden and unexpected settlement of the writers strike which meant the Oscars could be held as planned. "The booking alone would have taken 15 days."
-- Jon Stewart will be showing some of the clip packages that purportedly were prepared in case the writers strike had remained in force, but fortunately did not make the cut.
-- If this year's Oscars suck, don't blame the writers. I'm told that arrangements were so last-minute because of the writers strike that some of the show's scribes began doing the Oscars by phone, fax and cyberspace. An insider tells me, "Every writer had been festering with ideas they were not allowed to put on paper, so the moment the strike ended it was like a starting gun went off and the Internet lit up. Everyone needed to clear their schedules so it could come off as envisioned. I don't know what they had to clear -- who was workin'? -- but that doesn't seem to change a thing."
-- Queen Latifah, one of the scheduled presenters, had a family emergency and had to drop out.
-- John Travolta, who played Edna Turnblad in last summer's hit musical Hairspray, will dance. As a man.
-- This year's unofficial Academy Awards Drinking Game will consist of counting the number of times the cameras cut to Sean Combs (aka P. Diddy) in the audience. His star turn in the ABC telemovie Raisin In The Sun airs the day after the Oscars, on Monday night.
The official ABC telecast kicks off Sunday at 5 PM Pacific time. Academy Award nominees, presenters and performers will be greeted on Oscar’s Red Carpet by film historian, television host and Hollywood Reporter columnist Robert Osborne. Red Carpet guest arrivals are expected to begin at approximately 3 PM PT.
ABC morning show co-host Regis Philbin also will be on the Red Carpet, and, no, he wasn't at the first ceremony 80 years ago. Actually, I'm told that venerable 97-year-old production designer Robert F. Boyle (who is receiving an honorary award for art direction from Nicole Kidman and her baby bump) was 17 when the first Oscars were given out, and remembers it.
Fashion reporters are predicting hot fall colors -- the blues, purples and greens seen in the recent European couture show -- and a burst of spring colors -- lavender, red rose, peach, pink, grass green, even sunny daffodil -- on Sunday's red carpet. But there'd better be heaters on the Red Carpet for all that exposed cleavage and bare shoulders because rain is likely with temps only in the 50s and winds at 10-15 mph.
The Oscar broadcast drew just 38.9 million viewers on Jon Stewart's watch in 2006. That number was smaller than the 39.9 million drawn by 2007's ceremony hosted by Ellen DeGeneres. (Compare both to the 55 million who tuned in for Billy Crystal back in 1998. Those were the good old days.) Most of the overseas audience for Oscars have never even heard of Jon Stewart. So he's been chosen twice to host after bombing first time out. At least he admitted last time he was a poor choice to host the Oscars, given that his film experience amounted to little more than "the fourth male lead from Death to Smoochy".
It's not exactly all Triple-A presenters and performers who will participate in the Oscar telecast this time. Because most of the big names needed more than just two weeks' notice to show up post-strike after Hollywood had been shut down for months. Those scheduled include all four of last year’s winners in the acting categories—Alan Arkin, Jennifer Hudson, Helen Mirren and Forest Whitaker—as well as Amy Adams, Jessica Alba, Cate Blanchett, Josh Brolin, Steve Carell, George Clooney, Penelope Cruz, Miley Cyrus, Patrick Dempsey, Cameron Diaz, Colin Farrell, Harrison Ford, Jennifer Garner, Tom Hanks, Anne Hathaway, Katherine Heigl, Jonah Hill, Dwayne Johnson, Nicole Kidman, James McAvoy, Jack Nicholson, Seth Rogen, Keri Russell, Martin Scorsese, Hilary Swank, John Travolta, Denzel Washington (photo, Denzel onstage at the Oscars rehearsal inside the Kodak Theater) and Renee Zellweger.
Here are the performers of the nominated songs: Amy Adams will sing “Happy Working Song” from Enchanted (music by Alan Menken and lyric by Stephen Schwartz). Also from “Enchanted” (and written by Menken and Schwartz) will be “That’s How You Know,” sung by Kristin Chenoweth and Marlon Saunders, and “So Close,” to be performed by Jon McLaughlin. Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova will perform their nominated song, “Falling Slowly,” from the motion picture Once. Jamia Simone Nash will perform “Raise It Up,” from August Rush, with the IMPACT Repertory Theatre of Harlem, headed by Jamal Joseph, who shares the song’s music and lyric credit with Charles Mack and Tevin Thomas.
The Oscar telecast team of writers include headliners Hal Kanter, Buz Kohan, Jon Macks and Bruce Vilanch. Second-time Oscar show host Jon Stewart also brought on several writers to work on the show and especially his monologue.
This year, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has launched a branded Oscars channel on YouTube – www.YouTube.com/Oscars – featuring Academy Awards show highlights and exclusive video interviews with members from each of the Academy’s branches. Participants include Quincy Jones, Alfred Molina, Sidney Poitier and John Travolta.
As usual, following the Academy Awards presentation, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will host its annual Governors Ball in the Grand Ballroom of the Hollywood & Highland Center. The Ball’s decor this year is a color palette inspired by two of Hollywood’s most recognizable icons, the Red Carpet and the gold Oscar statuette. Chef Wolfgang Puck will be serving an organic menu but was asked to scale down the lavish menu from previous years because of the strike woes. But Wolf's idea of simple is a baked potato wrapped in gold leaf and topped with $89-an-ounce Tsar Nicoulai caviar, and mac 'n' cheese with black truffles. (photo, Puck holds a plate of mini kobe cheeseburgers with remoulade appetizers, next to a dessert tray of completely edible 24-carat gold solid chocolate Oscars) The Ball’s 1,500 guests will include Oscar winners and nominees, show presenters and performers.
I've put together an Oscar party schedule for Hollywood glitterati here.
The celebrities interviewed on ABC's Barbara Walters Special timed to the Oscars are Miley Cyrus, Ellen Page, Harrison Ford and Vanessa Williams.
(Keep refreshing for latest news. I will be live-blogging the Academy Awards on Sunday. Come for the cynicism. Stay for the subversion.)
I’m glad to see you’re not overreacting or being an alarmist. Even tempered, cool headed reporting is all what this place is about.
Comment by Nowan — February 22, 2008 @ 6:00 pm
most actors are just that- they are not scholars- they just entertain us–don’t really care about what they think– most are anti-american and cannot even understand why they are able to say and do what they want– Americans have died for them –most Dems are in la la land and want to be taken care of. God help us if one of them get in office!
Comment by william — February 22, 2008 @ 6:02 pm
They should fear considering their products and their attitudes.
Comment by gone by now — February 22, 2008 @ 6:14 pm
For years Hollyweird has been relying on sequels & remakes.
Not much GOOD new stuff being produced,only ditzy teens,drunks,& bimbo flicks.
Where have all those good actors,scripts and plots gone?
Couple that with so called STARS using their celebrity to push their personal political agendas & bash the country,and our President…do you really expect anyone to watch this mutual admiration society go on stage to pat each other on the back?
Comment by Justin — February 22, 2008 @ 6:30 pm
If the Oscars are televised and nobody watches, do you care?
Comment by AJ — February 22, 2008 @ 6:59 pm
Audrey Hepburn, Gregory Peck, Burt Lancaster, Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn, John Huston… and a best song that everyone knew the words to. Bob Hope, we miss you. Are Oscar’s finest moments “Gone With the Wind”? Thanks for the memories.
Comment by RuBegonia — February 22, 2008 @ 7:04 pm
Viewing neighbors and families, lets Boycott the Oscars.
They get worse every year, and have become boring and dominated by P. Diddy nonsense.
ABC who is televising this has shown their disdain for family values during prime time with nude scenes, and is thinking the fines by the FCC are “cost of business”.
The whole bunch of them are tearing each other apart, ruining the lives of young talent, and trying to get us to buy in to their garbage. ENOUGH. Clean it up.
Comment by RobertMD — February 22, 2008 @ 7:06 pm
Nikki, the presenters are pretty much an “A” List of current Hollywood. Be thankful that Paris wasn’t included. The big problem with the year’s Oscars - aside from the WGA strike that derailed the PR process - is that the marvelous films haven’t been seen by many people. I purposely viewed “Blood” this afternoon…it was the only highly-nominated film I hadn’t seen (Hey, I’m a gay guy and take the Oscars seriously. Well, semi-seriously).
Comment by Jack Scribe — February 22, 2008 @ 7:18 pm
Going the way of “Miss America”… thankfully !
Comment by BS — February 22, 2008 @ 7:25 pm
I couldn’t care less. Why would I want to see a bunch of people I don’t know or care about winning a bunch of crap for playing pretend in a bunch of movies? Isn’t it enough that I might have paid to watch a couple of their movies this year? Are they going to come to my job and cheer me on for getting an award or citation? Probably not. There’s no reason for this to be televised.
Comment by no — February 22, 2008 @ 7:46 pm
I haven’t watched the Oscars for about the past ten years. I could see the downward trend starting way back then and I’m not really surprised at this recent turn of events.
When Hollywood starts making more movies worth seeing, I’ll start caring about the Oscars again.
Comment by David — February 22, 2008 @ 7:49 pm
the death of the academy awards is extremely healthy.
it is now impossible for the ‘hollywood community’ to continue enforcing its false dedication to quality or craft or even the skill of creating a movie star’s mystique. there is something anachronistic about this parade of embalmed phonies insisting on their artistry when elections are rigged, brutal imperialist wars continue, and disneyfied child prostitutes like britney spears combust in public - which, history will prove, is the ultimate punk kamikaze attack on hollywood.
oddly enough, the movies nominated this year are very strong - not much glossy shit, like dreamgirls.
it’s the heart of the show that is rotten, not the films. nobody young cares, and it is embarrassing and degrading to go to oscar viewing parties.
i will be doing what i normally do during the oscars, driving around on beautiful empty streets, going out to eat in empty restaurants that don’t have tv, then later watching ’shampoo’ one more time with my honey, stoned out of our minds.
Comment by jw parsons — February 22, 2008 @ 8:02 pm
george clooney…if you need a date for the oscars, email me
Comment by jejjen enn anderson — February 22, 2008 @ 8:23 pm
Serves them right. Pump out some decent films and maybe your viewership will rise.
Comment by Sam James — February 22, 2008 @ 8:36 pm
Can anyone remember any good movies that have come out of Hollywood in the past 10-15 years. When the animation movies are box office hits and the movies with actors are complete duds what does that tell you. Hollywood’s days are over. The greed, avarice and arrogance has finally caught up with them and the end of the track is in sight. Americans have finally had enough of the pompous, posturing airheads who believe because they made a few dollars playing someone else on screen, that they have the right to tell the rest of the country how to think. Game, set, match. Save some of those dollars cause you are going to need them. Redford and his merry band of Anti-American peers need look no further than themselves for killing their golden goose. They are no longer entertaining and no one cares.
Comment by EdwardsEdards — February 22, 2008 @ 8:37 pm
The Oscars was put on life support with “Crash” and died a year ago with “The Departed” — I mean how could a remake deserve the Best Picture of the year…
& we’re virtually going to repeat the pattern this year, NCFOM is arguably not a Top 5 Coen Brothers picture, and the final act was a complete let down; Atonement despite being mis-marketed as a Titanic clone was far and away the best movie this year.
Comment by Damian — February 22, 2008 @ 8:41 pm
Who let the PTC out of their cage?
Comment by T — February 22, 2008 @ 8:48 pm
justin wrote:
Where have all those good actors,scripts and plots gone?
Scott answers:
I’m not sure where all the good scripts and plots have gone, but I hope they are in rehab with all the actors.
Comment by scott — February 22, 2008 @ 8:55 pm
To be honest I’m so tired of Hollywood patting itself on the back I won’t be watching. It’s just one more annoying award show the world could live without.
Comment by Ken in Miami — February 22, 2008 @ 8:57 pm
Haven’t gone to see movie in years, what and who are the Oscars for?
Comment by dadndaaield — February 22, 2008 @ 9:44 pm
Hey Hollywood when your up there on stage thanking every Tom Dick and Harry how about thanking our Troops.
Comment by Sandra Gonzo — February 22, 2008 @ 10:15 pm
I hope people get tired of the Oscars. Then maybe Hollywood would realize that they might be better off releasing quality films throughout the year as opposed to holding them to the December in hopes of being fresh in voters’ minds.
When almost all of the “Oscar-worthy” films are released in a six week period and a lot of them get only a limited release, I don’t think you can be surprised when America hasn’t heard of them and isn’t interested in seeing an awards show about them.
Comment by Kevin — February 22, 2008 @ 10:27 pm
Who cares if the self promoting “Oscar” party is a failure? This crowd of spoiled millionaires are like Dennis Rodman and Michale Vick… sluts and pimps dressed in expensive clothes, driving pricey cars!
So what! They are just ACTORS ! ! ! !
As for me, I’ll watch the re-runs with actors that actually respected America and admired their audience.
Otherwise… it’s Food Network… they really do give a damn!
Howard Ino
Comment by Howard Ino — February 22, 2008 @ 10:36 pm
If the Oscars are televised and nobody watches… do they really exist?
Comment by Jason — February 22, 2008 @ 10:43 pm
I am very excited about the award show and am looking forward to seeing fine films such as ‘Juno’ get the applause it deserves. This is an all American tradition! I love Hollywood!
Comment by deker — February 22, 2008 @ 10:54 pm
Is George Clooney going to give us some political rant again? I never watch this crap. Funny how he never married considering how we always hear he such a “ladies” man. I find Jon Stewart annoying and fairly talentless.
Hollywood has thumbed it’s nose at middle America. Hopefully film piracy and apathy causes this sewer to implode. Even liberal Darryl Hannah recently said that Hollywood treats women like meat and prostitutes. I shudder to think what women and men have to do to get a movie part in these trash films.
Comment by Franc — February 22, 2008 @ 10:54 pm
no country for old men, my choice
Comment by Paul — February 22, 2008 @ 10:59 pm
Along with all the other people above, I detest all that is Hollywood and thus I did not come to a site called Deadline Hollywood Daily and spend the last 15 minutes of my life reading Nikki’s article or reading all the other comments here, then taking 15 more minutes to write, then fine-tune, my own clueless rantings about the depravity of liberal-minding showbiz people, because I have far better things to do with my time.
I join my brothers in this comments zone in finding absolutely nothing better to do with my Sunday night other than post angry comments on Hollywood-related Web sites while my wife watches the Oscars in the next room. I will also post angry comments on politically-themed messages boards, and perhaps I will briefly search for some nude photos of famous actresses, then study them for a few minutes.
Comment by blake — February 22, 2008 @ 11:03 pm
Hey douchebags,
Have any of you actually watched the Best Picture nominees? They are all fantastic films.
I love “dadndaaield”… a person who “hasn’t gone to see movie in years” yet somehow reads and posts on this inside Hollywood website.
Oh, and Justin is hilarious also.
Comment by Bruce — February 22, 2008 @ 11:16 pm
If Hollywood would put as much effort into making films as they do into their political activism, there would be more of a demand for theie efforts. Using your celebrity status to push a political agenda is more of a turn-off than actors may think…. that applies to either side of the aisle.
Comment by Superpower — February 22, 2008 @ 11:38 pm
They don’t reflect our culture , values, etc. Get a grip Hollywood , we want Gary Cooper back not Michael Moore.
Comment by Rudy Howard — February 22, 2008 @ 11:49 pm
Does Gil Cates (or anyone in Hollywood) realize how OBSCURE Jon Stewart is? NO ONE outside of LA or NY knows who he is. Billy Crystal was a movie star. Steve Martin is a movie star. Jon Stewart is the host of a small-time cable show. He maybe has ONE MILLION viewers. Does anyone read or understand ratings anymore?
Comment by GabbySteve — February 22, 2008 @ 11:53 pm
Is “Survivorman’s” Les Stroud up for any awards? That dude is rugged.
Comment by kitt — February 23, 2008 @ 12:09 am
What the hell is wrong with you people?
Have you even SEEN these movies. They’re all brilliant, and some of the best we’ve seen in decades.
Are you just against movies that actually require audiences to THINK?
Because if you have audiences THINKING, they’ll STOP WATCHING FOX NEWS.
Expect this comment to be deleted, because Fox News doesn’t believe in free speech.
NEVER HAS.
Good luck, COMMUNISTS!
Comment by Mark — February 23, 2008 @ 12:16 am
Hollywood is mostly made up of selfish idiots that have more money then most of us will see in our life time. Does this mean they know how to solve our country’s problems? Hell no.
Self grandizing idiots.
Comment by Fff — February 23, 2008 @ 12:16 am
Thanks guys, for the laughs! This is some of the funniest stuff I’ve read in a while. Maybe some of you could get jobs in Hollywood as writers! Nah, you’d hate it. And speaking of, why were all the actors supportive of the writers during the strike? I mean if they just gave up a fraction of a percent of their over-inflated income, the writers would have been back to work the next day. How shameless of them!
Comment by Kim — February 23, 2008 @ 12:23 am
Looks like the Oscars are following in the footsteps of the Miss America Contest…and they won’t be missed!
Hollywood is full of dirty old men who want to strip stupid women of their clothes and decency…it’s all about the sex.
Comment by sunshine484848 — February 23, 2008 @ 12:28 am
Jon Stewart was okay two years ago. The jokes were just a little too high brow for the actors in the audience (no one laughs at a crack about pulling down the giant Oscar statue and spreading democracy in Hollywood???) My guess is he’ll play a little better to the crowd gathered this second go-around.
And, Nikki, the Oscars are NEVER going to get 55 million again like it did in 1998 for Titanic’s coronation (the biggest movie of all time was, shockingly, ratings gold…) It wasn’t about Billy Crystal. In fact, in the last 30 years, the Oscars only broke 50 million domestic viewers ONE other time, and that was in 1983.
Maybe if Juno wasn’t the biggest box office draw nominated for Best Picture, this year’s telecast would rate higher. Which means either the Academy needs to learn to nominate movies that are more popular (and wouldn’t that have George Clooney in a tizzy), or the studios need to make better movies (that still manage to get some critical acclaim)… i.e. if the very deserving Ratatouille had gotten a Best Picture nomination.
Out of the films that are nominated… the general viewing public couldn’t give two shakes of a fist about There Will Be Blood or Atonement. No Country For Old Men, as a western, automatically is a hard sell today. Juno is niche. And Michael Clayton, well, I’d hazard a guess that even with its nominations, 99 of 100 people in America couldn’t tell you it was a movie.
Also going against this year’s telecast… the only major category with any real question mark about who is going to win is the Supporting Actress trophy, and that usually gets handed out first.
Bottom line, this year’s Oscars will be lucky to hit the numbers they did when Jon hosted last… but that won’t be his fault. Not by a mile.
Comment by Wanna-Writer-Be — February 23, 2008 @ 12:37 am
Hollywood gave up on America. I’m glad to see America finally give up on Hollywood. These actors have done so much to denigrate this great country when they should be damn proud at all we’ve done to feed the world and protect it. If it weren’t for this great country, none of these chumps would be allowed to say what they do. Plus if these idiots don’t realize that if the Muslim Extremists have their way, every one of these women that appear naked on their backs in these movies would be stoned to death. How’s that for equality?
Comment by TexasBD — February 23, 2008 @ 12:42 am
I stopped watching the Oscars when “American Beauty” won. I saw the film and figured that Hollywood was truly in the ozone with this “classic” on American life. The hero blackmails his employer and is a pedophile. The wife is a silly, brainless adultress. The daughter is totally negelected, with confused values. The next door neighbor is a nazi-loving military nut who is sexual repressed, with a son who is a druggie and very strange. Oh yes, a couple of wonderful gay professionals live on the other side of the house and are so into flowers. Into this typical American mess steps a cheerleader who needs counseling. I found the entire movie a peek into what Hollywood thinks of all of us. Not much respect for people who go to work, play by the rules and love their families.
Comment by dian — February 23, 2008 @ 12:53 am
Please tell me this is a joke and none of you are taking this that seriously!!
There are REAL things going on in the world and some are supposedly worring about what this star will wear?
More proof how unimportant Hollywood has become.
No wonder no one cares about your various strikes!
- Alex Wolf
Comment by Alex Wolf — February 23, 2008 @ 1:21 am
As to the Oscars, no body cares. This is a feel good party for Hollywood. Movie views don’t watch because of the garbage Hollywood puts out, because of the insanity of the Brinty Spears crowd. And there is allot of them. I watched ABC coverage Friday morning and wondered if the comentator really believed the Oscars was important? Such waste of brain power I am ashamded I wasted any of my valuable time. Like putting this remark on the website. The only reason for this remark is the impact Hollywood has on the culture. And the real impact is the real hate the Islamic Terrorist have of America, all based on their real dislike for Hollywood.
Comment by LRutherford — February 23, 2008 @ 1:24 am
Most of the real people have left the industry anyway.The whole biz has become way too corporate. Does anyone really care about Brittany or Paris? I prefer the anarchy of the internet. Hollywood is so 20th century.
Comment by BBangkDDave in BangkokaDave in — February 23, 2008 @ 1:27 am
Who wants to watch a bunch of wacko’s from the film actor’s guild blast off on the country that brought them prosperity? On a benevolent and generous land. And if they don’t politicize the show, enough of them have been out there deriding their country to make the masses puke and tune out.
Comment by paavo nurmi — February 23, 2008 @ 1:38 am
For those of you that think that the Oscars are going the same way as the dodo bird and Miss America, think again. Miss America pretty much died due to factors related to reality TV and that most of the contestants are eliminated before the first commercial break. One other factor that clearly didn’t help was FOX’s decision to air the show “Who Want’s to Marry a Multi-Millionaire,” and turn it into a two-hour pageant that resulted in a marriage that was doomed from the start.
As for the Oscars, ABC’s decision to move the ceremony to February hurt more because it contracts the window for movies to be displayed. The problem is that the American people are more focused on the NFL Playoffs, Super Bowl, and Daytona 500 to attend movies. If so, they might check out some mindless crap like “Be Kind, Rewind” or rent something from netflix or elsewhere. What needs to be done is that the Oscars need to be held in the springtime. I am not saying that they should be pushed to the last Monday of the season, but the Oscars could be held in early May or late April and still be with-in a sweeps period. The studios can then use the NFL Playoffs and Super Bowl to promote likely Oscar contenders and the entire month of February would be used to release these Oscar contenders and create the word of mouth to generate good box office.
What can also be done is for the Academy to create an Comedy and Drama division for the ceremony. That way the editing awards can be banished to the other ceremony.
Regarding the actors and actresses, they should keep their mouth shut. While they can voice their opinions, the Oscars isn’t the place to do it. Besides, the last time Jon Stewart hosted, the South Park guys were able to take George Clooney’s speech and turn it into an South Park episode where San Francisco is destroyed.
With that in mind, remakes and sequels shouldn’t be allowed to be made and to the point that the SAG should force the studios to cut down on the remakes and sequels, while the A-listers get shafted at an incredible rate with a Salary Cap.
In the end, this year’s show will be low rated, but the SAG will force a move to the first Sunday in May as a result of their negotiations and the ceremony should be back about the 40 million range. Besides, Jon Stewart isn’t all bad. The alternative was to go for the easy waiver and that would have meant dropping Jon Stewart and going with David Letterman. In the end, for all of those naysayers, it is only 364 or 434 days until either Robin Williams or Steve Carell is the host.
Comment by Jessy S. — February 23, 2008 @ 1:52 am
Is this on tv? When? Sure hope it doesn’t interfere with the Simpsons. There’s a show! It has far more appeal than watching a bunch of dim-witted Marxist moonbats telling each other how good they are. American has had enough of the insane ranting from these useful idiots.
Comment by FoghornLeghorn — February 23, 2008 @ 2:45 am
I have better things to do than to watch a bunch of overpaid, shallow, worthless people congratulate themselves by throwing expensive parties, handing out free goodie bags to each other with $100,000 worth of perfume and useless crap and talk about what the latest talentless starlets are wearing. Like picking my nose.
Comment by Steven Spencer — February 23, 2008 @ 3:12 am
I wonder what the “stars” will be wearing. Yeah Right! … Tired of: Paparatzi - “What are you wearing?” Movie “star” - Well, I am wearing Fruit-of-the-loom with purple cotton socks designed by Johny Arrogant. Paparatzi- You look lovely!
Comment by John Sanders — February 23, 2008 @ 3:44 am
I am so sick of Hollywood and these stupid awards shows. Are you kidding me? They make movies/tv shows and how many awards shows are dedicated to patting themselves on the back? They’re not saving the world, and in my opinion, some of these actors are actually making the world a worse place. I never watch these shows and I’d be really psyched if the rest of the American public did the same and ignored the Oscars entirely. Maybe that would make the point that although they may be impressed with themselves, nobody else is.
Comment by Sick of actors — February 23, 2008 @ 3:51 am
Well it’s good to see Hollywierd heading towards the same fate as the NYT and other left wing liberal institutions,… oblivion!
How sick we are of listening to these high school dropouts and ultra rich anti-American societal misfits tell us how to be more socialist while they give NONE of their big bucks away!
When the day comes that they all are living in boxes on the streets of Beverly Hills, I will stand up and cheer!
Comment by ricardo maxwell — February 23, 2008 @ 3:52 am
Come on, Nikki, i’m not an American and i say that Jon Stewart is the only reason to watch this show. The ratings numbers have nothing to do with the host. People just sick of the Oscars and the ridiculous choices the academy takes. I’ll stay up all night just to see Jon Stewart and with hope for an Israeli win in the foreign film category.
Comment by Dana — February 23, 2008 @ 3:53 am
When they snubbed Mel Gibson’s Passion of the Christ and another great movie, Facing the giants, I swore hollywood off for good! Most of them are in the alex jones willie nelson crowd anyway! (9/11 was an inside job) What a bunch of KOOKS. Seeing hollywood go down is almost as delicous as seeing the Clinton’s go down. HA HA HA HA hollywood!
Comment by CHRISTIE — February 23, 2008 @ 4:13 am
Maybe this will be the last Oscar on TV. Good Riddance to a self aggrandizing gathering of untalented hangers-on. Oscar used to have meaning when true talent and skill appeared on the screen. Today’s cadre of strippers, must-hires, and pretty boys, “performing” the inevitible bed scene filler plus totally unacceptable profanity make for less than entertainment. On a ten scale, today’s movies are a “two-bag.” When the “leadership” (bums) in Hollywood finally realize that money is made with entertaining and not “graphic, artistic or reality” movies (G vs. R or X), then MAYBE Oscars will have meaning once again. I don’t know when the Oscar broadcast is being televised, but when I find out, I’ll be sure to tune in a re-run of Gilligan or The Big Valley.
Comment by SS McDonald — February 23, 2008 @ 4:32 am
I’ve watched the Oscarcast every year since 1972, when I was 13 and was rooting for the first film I’d ever seen more than once in a theater, “Fiddler on the Roof.”
It’s been compelling ever since. Not necessarily “entertaining,” but fascinating, from the clothing mores to the film montages to the inevitable spontaneous moments that belie all planning and preparation. I’ve settled back for the red-carpet coverage, ordered two pizzas and a bucket o’ wings for delivery, and had a good time.
This is the first year, though, that I’ve had no desire to watch it, after 36 times in a row. I’ve seen NONE of the films that were nominated, for anything, and have nothing to root for. No previews have been persuasive, and the Coen brothers have become boring. So what’s the point?
Well, there’s one exception. I saw “Enchanted.” But NO film deserves THREE nominations for Best Original Song. Not when the Music Branch is so parochial about the home-town boys, and excludes brilliant work from abroad — such as Take That’s song “Rule the World,” for “Stardust.”
For that matter, the criminally under-publicized, brilliant, evocative “Stardust” got no nominations at all … one less than even “Norbit” received, for makeup. That’s just too sad for words, as a commentary on the state of our civilization.
The short films on YouTube have more life than Hollywood does, in the aggregates, and perhaps that’s as it should be. Every art form needs a revolution now and then, as Jefferson once prescribed for nations as a whole.
So, for the first time in three dozen years, I really do have better things to do on this particular Sunday night. Hollywood should be worried. They really don’t want to lose middle-of-the-culture viewers like me, but they already have.
Comment by Greybird — February 23, 2008 @ 4:40 am
The market works; the stars have to hate it. The studios know it; they will survive.
Comment by Ken — February 23, 2008 @ 4:41 am
WoW! They hate us-they really really hate us!
Are all the troll posters here from some right wing political rally or nutty church group?
Great that you hate us all and our jobs and stuff-even though you profess to never see any of it. It would really kill you to know how many truly talented, creative, highly intelligent people work here, they enjoy their lives and families and are involved in the community. Many of them live by beautiful philosophies of life and share, give and care more than is ever told.
not sayin’ everything is art and beauty all the time-but it does appear and it can inspiring and special. People feel free to speak about their political beliefs and they do-why not?
I can promise you shaking insecure souls that Hollywood doesn’t hate you or make fun of you, most of us don’t think about you at all-ever.. We cannot destroy America in any way as we are only a small group of people,some make up and costumes, and a giant mirror that we hold up to you and while you look at yourself- we tell you story. so-don’t hate us cause we really don’t care-there are amazing films made every year-you apparently don’t see them. oh, one other thing-I can tell by your tones-none of you would ever get laid here-so there really is no reason to even visit. sorry.
Comment by hollywood liberal — February 23, 2008 @ 5:20 am
Most Oscar nominated movies consist of the worst aspects of the human condition. They are rarely uplifting, inspirational or hope-filled. Why would I want to see those movies and why would I care to see their creators be praised and rewarded? My favorite movie this year was Bella but it was too hopeful for the Hollywood crowd. If a movie doesn’t have extreme violence, elicit sex, foul language, or ground-breaking homosexuality it is no good in Hollywood’s eyes. You need to show women and children getting raped, beaten and killed in order to be celebrated. I hope people are really getting sick of this and will just turn off their tvs.
Comment by sam — February 23, 2008 @ 5:42 am
Just cancel the damn show.
It is way to long, the actors suck anyways and I am sick and tired about hearing them bitch and moan about the economy, the enviornment, the president and the US.
If everything is so bad (the baldwin family) move the hell out of the United States. The last time I looked, the US is the home of the free and the brave.
The Baldiwn family are a bunch of pussy whiners and you are free to move to any socialist country you like, also, take Hillary and Billy Clinton along with you.
When the said that Johnny Stewart will be hosting the poor attendened show, they lost me. He sucks more than the other losers.
Comment by Jasper — February 23, 2008 @ 5:55 am
I’ll watch it because I’ve always watched the Oscars and I just realized I haven’t seen ANY of the five nominated films. That’s a first for me. I just hope it’s a movie night and actors don’t start making political speeches about Hillary or Obama.
Comment by Sue — February 23, 2008 @ 6:13 am
Juno??? What the hell’s Juno??? All the name means to me is that of my first “free” email service over a decade ago!
Comment by Unca Dave — February 23, 2008 @ 6:23 am
As they crawl from rehab to rehab, take money from tobacco companies to promote cigarettes in movies and complain about publicity yet hire pr agencies, who cares about Hollywood Hipocrites???
Comment by frankie — February 23, 2008 @ 6:29 am
On balance, the entire Hollywood community, (and it’s not limited to only the shallow, narcissistic actors) are smug, arrogant, insular, and insulated, and they are not afraid to flaunt it. No wonder the ratings are continually plummeting. I’d rather watch paint dry.
Comment by Phizz — February 23, 2008 @ 6:34 am
Most thinking people don’t give a shit about the Oscars anyway.
Comment by Darrell — February 23, 2008 @ 6:38 am
Who cares about ANY of these spoiled brats that aren’t worth my time. Oscars are a non event except for these clowns who feel so self important. As long as Hollywood promotes trash I will continue to maintain my 16.5 year boycott of ALL television. I know, it does seem incredible but it’s true.
Joe
Comment by Joe — February 23, 2008 @ 6:42 am
I have been watching TCM movies all week - previous Oscar winners and my thought is “Good grief”! These were wonderful movies - good acting, funny, witty and meaningful dialogue, and plots that we could understand. In other words they were entertaining and they did not rely on computerized special effects, nudity, foul language and bodily functions to make us laugh, cry, feel good, etc. Oh, for the gold old days!
Comment by Patti — February 23, 2008 @ 6:52 am
The first leftist to start pimping for Obama and slamming Pres. Bush will make my channel turn.
Comment by killerbee — February 23, 2008 @ 7:10 am
Who cares what a bunch of leftest eletist morons do or say. The only good actors in this country are from “down under” anyway.If it were not for Mel Gibson and Russell Crowe I would not even watch anything.
Comment by volunteersunrise — February 23, 2008 @ 7:25 am
Everyone going into the KODAK theatre should have to drive their own vehicle into a parking lot , pay for parking and then pay at least $10.00 per ticket and $20.00 for some watered down soft drinks and popcorn…. and if htey are wondering why no one watches , we are also tired of the America hating , pontificating BS… Just watched “Goodbye Girl” Last night .. It would beat any in every catagory today
Comment by jack — February 23, 2008 @ 7:28 am
Just so much self-congratulatory hokum. How about if we put out some interesting, socially responsible, artist work and see who watches. No, on second thought, let’s just pander to the lowest common denominator, juvenile instincts and see how much money we can make. Then, we’ll all get dressed up and tell each other how great we all are. can you imagine this happening in other industries? The greatest performance by a female barista in foaming the coffee goes to….
Comment by W. Joseph — February 23, 2008 @ 7:29 am
I just wanted to say “thank you” to everyone that posted a comment here. You really made me laugh and were more entertaining than anything I’ve seen on tv lately. Guess what? I used to be in the “business” in hollywood, but I got so sick and tired of the hypocrisy surrounding me. I grew up in the Midwest where most people still care about others. I’m so relieved to not have to deal with so many of the sleazy directors, producers, neurotic writers and narcissitic actors. It is ironic and I used to pray for this area of the country because I used to have a heart for them, but not sure if I do anymore. Most of the product they output to the world is what the Islamic extremists loathe and think that America represents, when it is so not true. Most of America represents what is good and what dreams are made of. Today’s “Hollywood” is what the Islamic extremists hate. And “Hollywood” has the audacity to bash this country and the President and the troops. Obama will probably get elected and then we’ll have another attack from the Islamic terrorists, but this time they’ll probably be more specific with their target….like “Hollywood”. Maybe then that would stop the wars because the terrorists will finally get what they want…..to get rid of all the “indecent” things American. And I can go back to watching my “Decorating for Cents” show and “Ninja Warrior” for my entertainment! P.S. I haven’t been to a movie in ages because there’s just nothing good out there. I will say though that I’m still fans of those actors that are talented, but don’t get political on me, such as Steve Carrell and Jim Carrey. One of them should be the host, not what’s his name?
Comment by al — February 23, 2008 @ 7:29 am
I probably won’t watch the Oscars and haven’t for many years. Too many people making fools of themselves when they open their mouths. Just take your award and cut the politican talk - nobody wants to hear it. And no comments about your out of wedlock child with your latest honey, your latest abortion, your drug problem, or your suicidal inclinations.
Comment by KPRO — February 23, 2008 @ 7:37 am
What do washed up actors do? They become political activists. Where does most of Hollywood live? In LALA Land, and they have no clue about reality. What does most actors/actresses do to show their pride and gratitude for what they have received in the USA? Nothing, except complain, moan and groan how bad it is in the USA.
Will we watch the Oscars? Not a chance.
May GOD BLESS AMERICA! We are NOT Politically Correct, and we are proud of it!!
Comment by Randy — February 23, 2008 @ 7:49 am
The Academy Awards need to be moved to cable..where they can air uncensored, acceptence speeches can last more than a minute, and some sense of general anarchy can rule..
Putting them back into a springtime time slot would solve the problem to some degree..but the Telvision audience is fractured into many different sub catagories now..and there is other stuff on cable and the internet for folks to stream..
Face it, the MTV Movie Awards draw pretty much the same faces as the Oscars..MTV focuses on films that the vast majority of the audience actually buys tickets for..instead of films that no one has seen yet, and likely won’t until they hit Netflix or OnDemand..
I won’t be watching the Oscars..better things to do tomorrow night..
Comment by adz — February 23, 2008 @ 7:54 am
Look, it’s an election year. So it’s right that the Oscars host’s only credentials are in whacky political analysis and that he is the leading source of news for the largest swath of actors. The point is that they get news, which allows them to be more informed than the great bulk of their many dozens of fans.
It is essential that a forum exist then which exposes tens and tens of television watchers to well really lovely role models with a professional ability to memorize Jon Stewart’s scripts and perform them even more movingly than he has. And it helps that these people are pretty so that people who are not watching Stewart will have here a better reason to learn what he believes through them.
As for the crap others have posted about marxist/commie/sluts/druggy/airheads - well, most of the people hurling those charges have no idea how hard it it to be Amy Winehouse, Britnny… um Brittanny…. er Brittiny… wuddever… or George Clooney. Until they strut a mile in their mascara they have no right to characterize them as glimmering empty containers for the vintners of anti-American swill. Whatever happened to actions have consequences…er… freedom of speech… anyway?
Since it is a Presidential election year, I for one am frizzed to learn if these glimmering opinion makers support Barak, Hillary,Will Truman, or Hugo Chavez.
Oh… Will the Oscars have a ten second delay button this year? Wonder why anyone thinks that’s necessary? After all TV owners have an editing device and will undoubtedly choose once again to edit out any exposure to ‘Oscar-Think’ by instead pushing their buttons to Animal Planet.
Comment by Gene Taylor — February 23, 2008 @ 7:57 am
I can’t believe they asked Jon Stewart to host again. He was perhaps the worst host I’ve seen in last year’s show. Why would they ask him back? Would nobody else agree to do it? I am a huge admirer of Stewart’s on The Daily Show, and have seen him live here in Toronto, he’s amazing. But he’s not a Hollywood persona.
I just hope that the serious movies get their rewards tonight, like Away from Her and No Country for Old Men. Superb filmmaking from Sara Polley, and riveting performances by Julie Christie and Gordon Pinsent.
Comment by Andrew — February 23, 2008 @ 7:59 am
We will be watching reruns of “Chuck” and then the Simpsons. Who cares about hollywood anymore besides the clowns who work there. We haven’t been in a movie theater in years, and don’t plan on going anytime soon. We’ve been buying old movies and watching reruns of Perry Mason and Alfred Hitchcock. Just think of all the co2 coming out of these idiots mouths.
Comment by Mr. "P" — February 23, 2008 @ 8:01 am
It’s no secret that the Oscars ratings are dependent on having movies people watched nominated. 2007 was a good year for movies overall, both mainstream and smaller films. This year’s best picture nominees are probably one of the better slates in recent years, all deserving.
There were some great studio films that were box office successes that weren’t nominated for best picture, namely Ratatouille and Bourne Ultimatum. Superbad and Knocked Up were successes too and they were produced by major studios.
Comment by Kelly — February 23, 2008 @ 8:02 am
if i didn’t have a life, how would watching the oscars make it any better? remember actors and actresses make their living in the world of make believe, which makes all their political rants ring hollow
Comment by Anonymous — February 23, 2008 @ 8:07 am
Trash begets being trashed….Hollywood stars are
unpatriotic, nasty people, not worth the time of day.
Comment by Ann Rocko — February 23, 2008 @ 8:10 am
There is nothing more overblown than the belief people really care about the Oscars. A self-serving mega back-slapping event for the intellectually juvenile Hollywood elite. It serves no purpose…not even entertainment.
Comment by Chris — February 23, 2008 @ 8:17 am
Once upon a time, I believed the Oscars presentations were a group of industry insiders who got together once each year to pat themselves on the back. I believed that while the show’s general outline was probably scripted to some extent, that the bulk of the on stage air time was truly the free flow of thoughts and ideas from the participants. Since the writers’ strike I’ve learned how naive that belief was. The writers’ strike made it completely obvious that the Oscars are less of a public awards show and more of another way to sell expensive advertisments on television. There really is no difference between the movie on the other station and the Oscars, except the movie has a better plot. If the whole thing is written, and the show can’t go on without weeks of prepatory writing, then why not delay the show, and just post to an online blog and let us read about it. The hollywood reporters will tell us all about it the next day anyway. Why do I need to waste another Sunday evening listening to what the writers want me to know?
Comment by eot — February 23, 2008 @ 8:17 am
I’m going dancing Sunday night. Screw the oscars. When all the morons are looking at the TV wishing they were as cool as the people on it, I’ll be holding a real live woman in my arms and gazing into her eyes as we salsa and cha cha across the dance floor!
Comment by mopar777 — February 23, 2008 @ 8:18 am
I loved the shadow puppets.
Comment by Mimi — February 23, 2008 @ 8:20 am
I love this. I am not alone. No one cares anymore or should I say most of us don’t, I hope.
These people are not worthy of Oscars as in days gone by.
When I read of all the special beauty treatments they are all running to get, it was quite disturbing.
They think more of themselves then we do.
I hope this year will be a very low turn out of viewers, to send them a message.
They are legends in their own minds and live in a strange world, I want know part of.
I hope America has grown up and avoids the show. I feel I have grown up. A part of me wants a peak but it’s almost like I’ll feel like I disgraced myself for watching.
Comment by Barbara — February 23, 2008 @ 8:24 am
nobody cares about hollywood anymore. they shouldn’t even televise it anymore as well.
Comment by jb — February 23, 2008 @ 8:26 am
Worst Oscars ever. Lowest viewership ever. So what, who cares?
Comment by Joe Momma — February 23, 2008 @ 8:27 am
The people in the entertainment industry, in partiularly those who make millions, have no loyalty nor anything in common with the average American. In fact many of them loath us as demonstrated by their anti-American comments overseas as they bask in the loving applause of those who hate us. They are in fact members of an international moneyed elite with no loyalty to anyone but their kind. We in America don’t need these people. Like the young starlets with cash are good examples for anyone but mindless young women who read the tabloid trash.
Comment by Adealia Artist — February 23, 2008 @ 8:32 am
Somehow Hollywood forgot that the product they are selling is entertainment. People who are purchasing this product want to be entertained; not “enlightend” by some self-indulgent, egotisitical director; not preached to or told how ignorant and backward they are by some actor or actress who has just finished their fourth session of drug rehab. If you do not provide the product the customer wants, the customer will find that product somewhere else. People have found that everything from NASCAR to video games to bloging on the internet are far more entertaining and fun than paying an exorbitant price to sit in a movie theater and be insulted by the latest, self-proclaimed world savior from Hollywood. People are no longer paying attention to the Oscar Awards because they no longer care about the product that is being honored. It’s really that simple, although the egos of the Hollywood crowd will never allow themselves to admit it.
Comment by Jerry E — February 23, 2008 @ 8:33 am
I know who Sgt.York is, Patton, McArthur, the Band of Brothers, and a lot of other War HEROES from the past because of reading and some wonderful movies and shows. Years and years of entertaining ,educational, and fairly accurate portrayals of heroics under fire. Fast forward to 2008…..Are there any HEROES in the current wars we are involved? Not to hollywood! Just evil companies and soldiers who should be on trial. Any movie with a terrorist is anyone but a Muslim. Gee, I wonder why nobody gives a rats ass about hollywood. Take your awards shows and your putrid America hating movies and stick them up there beside your heads.
Comment by iatrucker — February 23, 2008 @ 8:44 am
As an actor myself, I have a suggestion for AMPAS. Instead of having this glorified circle jerk every year, why not change the format and only give awards for lifetime achievement? I’m a theatre guy, so I don’t go to the movies much, but I would much rather see some really good guys and gals get lifetime achievement awards than a bunch of nimrods (generally) get together and have a big party. To paraphrase George C. Scott, I’ll be home watching a hockey game.
Comment by Russ — February 23, 2008 @ 8:47 am
Actors strike….who gives a rats ass about those bastards.
Comment by IIIIIFGHFDHFDHFG — February 23, 2008 @ 8:49 am
It would have taken little effort on your part to look up the correct term for the award to be given to Bob Boyle this year for his body of work.
Bob is a Production Designer, and the award will be for Art Direction, he is not an art designer (which is a title that does not exist). His creativity and point of view has had great influence on our industry since silent films and should be treated with respect.
Comment by anne — February 23, 2008 @ 8:53 am
I’d be more concerned if people did actually watch it. Who can be interested in a suckfest amongst a bunch of people who are ludicrously overpaid for pretending to be someone else for a living. Don’t worry too much, the trailer trash will tune in.
Comment by jeff — February 23, 2008 @ 9:04 am
Please stop blaming the host for bad ratings! This is an entirely media created criticism. The ratings have always been dependent on the best picture film nominees and the mainstream public’s investment in them. Whenever a box office hit is nominated for Best Pic, a la “Titanic” and “Return of the King, the ratings go up. Can anyone remember who hosted those shows? I guess if you say Billy Crystal, you have a 50% chance of getting it right. If Hollywood made better mainstream films, it would have bigger Oscar ratings. If this year’s show sucks, it will be for one reason only: “Juno” wins Best Picture and Screenplay.
And to all the conservative wack jobs who post on this blog, I have a news flash for you: Ronald Reagan. Actor. Prez of SAG. Hollywood born and bred.
Comment by Bartleby — February 23, 2008 @ 9:07 am
I’ll go along with everyone about the Hollywood efforts and Oscar presentations being very un-noteworthy these days. There hasn’t been much originality, high quality, or significance in motion pictures [non-animated] for decades. At this point, the powers-that-be should return the Oscars’ ceremonies to a restaurant to be broadcast on radio only. People would then have an easier way to NOT turn on the sound. Hollywood groups as ‘movie makers’ are no longer important. Their so-called, social efforts are usually radical and against common sense, so what’s the loss?
And they can change the Oscar emcee to someone who might actually be funny without a disgusting or radically political mien. Personally, I can’t think of an appropriate nominee.
One solution to everything is to cut salaries for the Hollywood ‘worthies’ by 90 percent, and reduce movie theater ticket costs accordingly. If a movie is only worth 50 cents to see, that’s all the public should have to pay. An actor or actress needs only a couple of hundred thousand dollars at most for their efforts. Put the extra money into better scripts, plots, accuracy and general movie making effort. As of now: The ‘talent’ is overpaid. The movie theater tickets are over-priced. And the social activities of ‘actors’ are usually over-regarded, radically left—and simply representative of the ‘pea-brain’ mentality and lack of significance of such individuals.
Let Hollywood return to the ‘Thrilling days of Yesteryear’ with new and innovative movies.
Comment by T N McCoy — February 23, 2008 @ 9:10 am
Here’s another winners speach: I’d like to thank Mike, Sheery, Joe, Sally, Saul, Meranda, Julie, Craig, Yolanda, Matt, Evelen, Rose, Annette, Molly, Brett, Shelby, Mindy, Green, Leandra, Dorothea, Sloan, Bill, John. Music now plays cut to next winner with same speach. How orignal are these people?
Comment by Craig — February 23, 2008 @ 9:10 am
Thanks to many who have already expressed my disgust with Hollywood and why I don’t watch the Oscars, go to movies starring George Clooney, Michael Moore, and any other lefty loon who wants to spout off with their socialist politics.
Comment by Jjamjimesjimjj — February 23, 2008 @ 9:18 am
our role models have been corrupted by the leftists and elitists and mental midgets of our society
Comment by lonzo — February 23, 2008 @ 9:26 am
Hey Mark…
communists? I think not…The Democrat party is dangerously close to becoming communist…one step over from Socialism comrade….Maybe that’s why Obama will call his senators if he gets elected…God forbid!
Comment by Sandy-jessiegirl — February 23, 2008 @ 9:40 am
Why is it I dont get to see my garbage man or mail carrier get an award? He actually impacts my life unlike these clowns.
Comment by Brian — February 23, 2008 @ 9:50 am
At least they didnt have time to do any BS interpretive dance of each of the best picture nominees. That was a winner of an idea. Whoever thought of that should be shot. Jon Stewart is the best host they have had in a long while. Degeneres was bad, Crystals shtick got old the second or third time he did it. My favorite part of last years broadcast was when they came back from commercial and Jon Stewart was making fun of Scientology and you could literally hear crickets because the tools in attendance were either too afraid or to stupid to understand. Thats why it kills me when blowhards like Sean Penn get up and go on about their political views. These people need people to dress them, like I care what they think or who they will vote for. Just shut up thank god, your mother and forget to thank your wife and sit the hell down.
Comment by Steve — February 23, 2008 @ 9:51 am
Gore getting an oscar was the limit for me. I haven’t watched the oscars in years anyway. I like to be entertained by movies - not beat over the head with a liberal message.
Comment by Patg — February 23, 2008 @ 9:54 am
The Oscars have become the emmys, with all the TV actors being nominated.
What happened to the Movie Stars. Hollywood is a low class pimp and they’re too dumb to even realize that the audience knows it.
This show use to be about class, what people want to acheive not a reflection of the gutter. Also why are TV dictacting when to have the show…if you know that is hampering the industry because of the early date…then change it back before it’s too late.
Comment by boo — February 23, 2008 @ 9:55 am
if juno wins ANYTHING … i may have to consider never watching another movie for as long as i live. dramatic? perhaps… but so is the juno suck-fest.
and if it wins best picture or ellen page wins best actress… i think i will puke.
Comment by mikey — February 23, 2008 @ 10:02 am
For all of our sakes, turn off your computers, go outside and scream “I’m not going to take it anymore”.
The End
Comment by Moby — February 23, 2008 @ 10:09 am
Oscar’s, oh yeah a friend had a really big one. Too bad the aquarium malfunctioned. We found it floating and smelling up the whole house, couldn’t fit it down the toilet so put it on a bus to hollywood.
Comment by beavereater — February 23, 2008 @ 10:12 am
When the Association offers the same Goodie Bags to viewers as they dangle before members, we might be coaxed to watch……just as the members find it worthwhile to attend. Otherwise, this will be another bust evening.
Comment by Bee W — February 23, 2008 @ 10:14 am
Hey Mark, Are you a shill for Hollywood, or the result of a botched lobotomy?????
Comment by Flyboy — February 23, 2008 @ 10:26 am
Jessy S was only thoughtful comment on here -
truly wonder how many of these rants are from the same people - and if they all hate hollywood soooooo much - why log on to ‘dealine hollywood daily’? why not go to ‘drudge’ and rant with like minded folks there?
we live in transitional times - with philosopies, structures and institutions falling away in prep for that which will require better from ourselves - this and religion and old ideas that no longer work is all part of it - I say - Enjoy the ride folks - its the only one we got ! lets get forward to being ONE country again
hollyinside
Comment by hollyinside — February 23, 2008 @ 10:37 am
American gangster was the best movie out this past year. I don’t even know if it is too late for it to be in this years oscars as i have not watched them since i was a kid in the early 90’s.
That is about the only movie i can think of over the past year that had any good acting in it.
Denzel crushed it and Crowe played extremely well.
Comment by Anonymous — February 23, 2008 @ 10:44 am
I think the Oscars are like the Grammys which is just boring and not worthwhile. The MTV movie awards are more entertaining and exciting to watch.Even if the Oscars, like the Grammys, are more prestigious, it still doesn’t spark any interest.
Comment by Reed — February 23, 2008 @ 11:04 am
I do not care at all…it has been decades since I watched these self-absorbed, elitist, anti-American, no talents!
Maybe is they produced some movies worth watching, cleaned up their acts, and were thankful for the USA, i’d consider watching.
The strike didn’t affect me at all, either!
BTW - why don’t all these bleeding heart liberals take the money they are spending into trying to “look good”, and donate it to world hinger, AIDS, etc? Are their Botox injections really more important than all their causes that they want the American tax payer to fund…?
Comment by NoShariaForMe — February 23, 2008 @ 11:07 am
I rather enjoyed the shadow puppets from last year, but you could put a shiny red ball in front of me to keep me entertained.
Comment by Monica — February 23, 2008 @ 11:13 am
Nikki…uh…what the hell is going on here? I notice a definite pattern with the comments above. In short, here’s what I’ve learned so far:
People hate the Oscars, and they hate Hollywood, and they don’t like movies, and they’re sick and tired of actors with ploitical agendas (unless of course the agendas match their own). Did someone link your site with a neo-con website and didn’t tell you? Why do I feel like Sean Hanity mentioned your blog and told all his minions to spam it without mercy?
Comment by A-Dub — February 23, 2008 @ 11:14 am
Oh the drama of it all. Writers on pins needles after their strike, rain possible, breast getting buffed, botox under the arms, gee, it’s a wonder those of us living in the real world could care less about another indulgentself promoting hollyweird experince.
The idea that people actually care about this crap is beyond understanding. One can only hope the writers go on strike again, eliminating the endless B S that passes for TV and movies.
Comment by Boomer — February 23, 2008 @ 11:20 am
I’d rather watch paint dry than turn on the Oscars. And yes, I HAVE seen every movie nominated because I get the DVDs from a neighbor who is an Academy member. I fast forwarded most of them and, after being sufficiently disgusted by the content, stopped the player. Each year seems to get worst and yet the brain dead politically uber-correct crowd that runs Hollywood doesn’t seem to care one iota.
Comment by Wiliam — February 23, 2008 @ 11:25 am
This report was pretty pathetic. Just ranting opinion. Jon Stewart is a fantastic host and his shows are watched around the world. I am actually fed-up of this site and its blowhard bullshit. So long Nikki.
Comment by Kevin — February 23, 2008 @ 11:25 am
Well at least we have Rainn Wilson hosting the Spirit Awards today!
Comment by mheister — February 23, 2008 @ 11:36 am
I’ve lost count of how many people don’t care about the Oscars so passionatly they left messages describing just how much they don’t care about the Oscars.
And what’s with all the accusations about Hollywood communists? Has DHD fallen into a time warp and appeared in the midst of the McCarthy era?
- Richard
Comment by Richard Cosgrove — February 23, 2008 @ 11:43 am
Why should Americans watch the Oscars when most of Hollywood is anti-American? Many of these “entertainers” really do hate America so I’m not wasting my time watching celebrate each other.
Comment by Ian — February 23, 2008 @ 11:46 am
I gradually quit watching movies over the last 20 years because, no matter how well the “stars” look or perform in a role, I can’t forget the garbage that they spew about my Country off-screen. It’s a good thing that those “bash-America first” creeps have a script to follow because few of them have an IQ that surpasses that of a gnat.
Comment by Bob Strong — February 23, 2008 @ 11:47 am
Jon Stewart. He would be a lot funnier if he had enough pride to use his own name and got over the chip on his shoulder against gentile America.
The ethnic humor and the relentless rage, insecurity, and contempt behind it just wears this old Christian down. Acid tongue just gets tiresome.
He might be an OK kid if he just dropped the bitterness and related as a for-real human being. Sadly, his Hollywood appeal would probably evaporate if he did.
Comment by Big Bill — February 23, 2008 @ 11:48 am
Not watching…
Comment by TJ — February 23, 2008 @ 11:54 am
I’ve actually seen three of the nominated films this year - which is more than usual. I do wish they’d either nominate films more people have seen, or have longer after the nominations for the films to be distributed a little more.
I saw Juno, There will be blood, and Atonement and have to say of the three I like Atonement best - though I agree, it wasn’t at all what I was expecting.
I was wondering which wacko religious group told their members to spam your blog. I don’t *know* it was PTC, though the rhetoric of these posts do sound like them and it will hurt my eyes too much to look through their site in enough detail to know for sure. It’s silly though and not at all subtle when a bunch of supposedly random and “unconnected” folks show up out of the blue spouting the same pat phrases (poor grammar and all).
Comment by Shannan — February 23, 2008 @ 12:03 pm
I’m with all those who’ve been saying who cares if the Oscards don’t get watched or if they don’t ever air again. Hollywood really doesn’t produce that much value as it is and I would like to see the entire industry nationalized by Hugo Chavez and all of inflated salaries given away to the poor in the Venezuela - then it will be interesting to see how much these windbag stars (and others like MEshelle Obama) feel about America.
Comment by RSRob — February 23, 2008 @ 12:05 pm
What is this, like the 20,000th awards show this year? Is anyone else sick and tired of a different awards show for the same people every 5 minutes? The Screen Actor’s Guild Awards, the People’s Choice Awards, the Oscars, the Golden Globes…ENOUGH!!! I don’t watch mainly because I am sick and tired of watching these people congratulate themselves over and over and over and over and…
Comment by Scott — February 23, 2008 @ 12:06 pm
hollywood makes all their money because they force theaters not to carry many of the incredible films being made around the world! If people really knew how many excellent movies they were missing there would be riots! I went to an amazing film festival in Canada last year (Fantasia Film Festival) and saw a lot of really stunning movies every day for 3 weeks! The plots were intriguing, there were many new and talented actors, and the special effects were as good as anything Hollywood is doing, but with more imagination! Seriously people. You are missing out on what would be some of your favorite movies because of these liberal pukes who taint every movie with their warped agenda. There are so many alternatives to their crap if you just look for them and read the reviews on independent foreign cinema websites. Some of the movies are even made in the U.S. but can’t get distribution here! Screw hollywood’s insulting drivel!
Comment by Jo Blo — February 23, 2008 @ 12:12 pm
I will not watch the oscars beacuse all it ever is is a bunch of liberal actors promoting the democratic party while on stage. I can’t stand the movies that are nominated each year. All the oscars ever do is punish good clean successful movies by not nominating them for any awards. But the oscar will go to the movie that is the most politically correct and ,of course, a bomb at the box office. I can’t stand the oscar shows and I couldn’t care less what a bunch of bimbo’s and doppers have to say politicaly.
Comment by Christal — February 23, 2008 @ 12:18 pm
I quit going to movies and watching the oscars years ago.I like movies alot and used to go to the theater often but as a good American I cannot give them anymore of my money than absolutely nessassry. I buy used movies of ebay for a buck or two and build a collection of old good movies to watch. And since I no longer watch TV anyway I play them on my TV. 95% of Hollywood actors are communists and they must be stopped. The way to stop them is not to go to ANY movie houses, or spend any money on their products. Also start calling the democrat poiliticans and their voters what they are communists not democrats. I don’t give a rats ass about their opinions on anything. I may be missing a few good movies not being a consumer of their products but its worth it to my soul and there are many good old movies out there. And if there is a really really good movie you will hear about it anyway and buy it used on ebay for $3 six months or a year later.
Comment by paulweir — February 23, 2008 @ 12:20 pm
My wife and I stopped going to movies years ago. You can’t rely on the reviews or the media driven hype that surrounds their initial release. I’ve walked out on more “Masterpieces” & “Cinematic Triumphs” than I can recall. We still watch movies, we just see them about 3 months later than everyone else does. When these “Stunning Achievements Of Modern Film”, are selling on DVD for $5.00 in the bargain rack at Walmart we grab a couple to watch on a rainy afternoon. If they prove to be garbage, which they usually are, our loss is minimal.
Comment by Tom C. — February 23, 2008 @ 12:43 pm
Hey Mark, 12:16 am. I know your type. You tend to idolize famous people and will stand in the rain for hours just to get an autograph. These people you criticize are your average citizen who are sick and tired of the pompous actor who thinks they are more important than you because their job requires that they have name recognition. They are mostly Democrats who think they know better and are vocal about it instead of just doing their job. And since you trash Fox News, may I suggest that YOU are the one that would be the first to deny an individual their right to an opposing opinion. Read the comments and learn. Hollywood is out of touch and overall makes a bad product. But then you, who are most likely a liberal democrat will defend the devil if you have to. Hollywood and you live in your own little world. Enjoy it. Sane Americans are recognizing what it really is and are rejecting it.
Comment by Jiggy — February 23, 2008 @ 12:44 pm
I used to enjoy the Oscars. But not since it became a political show.
Comment by A Viewer — February 23, 2008 @ 1:06 pm
“Few in America or the world have seen the nominated pics and performances.”
The problem there lies with the public, not the films or performances themselves. What, put “Transformers” in there because “more people have seen it”?
“There’s no suspense because Hollywood has long ago guessed who and what will probably win.”
Unlike 30 years ago, there are a bunch of other award venues where basically the same people have already voted for the same nominations. And we all know who and what won. But if it was that cut and dried, we would be talking about that Best Picture of 2005, “Brokeback Mountain”, right?
“The vast majority of the presenters aren’t big names.”
Who cares? Anyone who has a beef with that has no credible complaint with the Oscars.
Comment by PG — February 23, 2008 @ 1:08 pm
It does my heart good to see others like myself who are disgusted with the agenda driven movies Hollywood has been feeding us over the past 10-20 years.
I believe Hollywood made a calculated decision to stop making movies for the average citizen and chose instead to make films that fit their political and social agendas. The disdain they show for our values is blatant. Now they’re reaping the fruit of that choice and it’s about time.
They want to be stars among their elite crowds and to hell with the rest of us. They know it’s not as profitable, but at least in “their” world they’re stars. There’s an audience out here for good and wholesome entertainment as the numbers prove when it’s offered.
Hopefully it doesn’t have to get worse before it gets better.
Comment by Pam in California — February 23, 2008 @ 1:09 pm
RuBegonia -
In the past few years, songs from 8 Mile and Hustle & Flow took Oscar. I could sing (okay, rap) along with both of those, and I’m an old white dude.
Oh and Oscar’s “finest moments” included dissing Citizen Kane in favor of How Green Is My Valley.
The difference between actors then and now? Back then they did all the same stuff (Bob Hope was a well-known womanizer, he and his buddy Bing Crosby would trade the names and numbers of particularly skillful showgirls, if you get my drift); we just know more about what they do today because of an explosion of tabloid magazines and television shows and websites, none of which would flourish were it not for an insatiable appetite for such prurient trash.
So quit hatin’ and enjoy the show for what it is - one part fashion, one part celebrity ego gratification, one part legitimate recognition of artistic achievement, one part cheesy musical numbers, one part humor, all wrapped up in a giant 3-4 hour commercial for the movie industry.
Comment by mheister — February 23, 2008 @ 1:22 pm
The Academy Awards could definitely be better–but it sickens me to see such a blatant and unapologetic conservative bias in some of these posters. Trust me, as as someone stuck in the heart of the Midwest, I’ve heard my share of comments from people saying that clean movies never get released. I understand it, and I’ve seen these movies. Frankly, they’re terrible.
Box office success =/= artistic merit!
With regards to the comment about this being “like the 20,000th award show this year,” I wish this were the only award show. Its production values trump all others.
No, the Academy Awards don’t always award the best film, but the show provides an annual excuse to look at some of the best films that the industry has produced. Just because you feel disrespected or alienated doesn’t give you the grounds to unfairly denigrate a venerable institution like the Oscars.
Comment by Nick — February 23, 2008 @ 1:25 pm
What do I think about the Oscars? Yawn….
Comment by Eyeball — February 23, 2008 @ 1:25 pm
Maybe I would have seen the movies nominated if the price of ticket were cut by 75%. Then to watch a show of overpayed actors prop up notions of socialism and eco-friendliness while showing up in huge cars with expensive clothes on just turns my stomach. They’re hypocrites and I will never see a movie again in a theatre until the prices of tickets and these so called stars paychecks come in line with the rest of hard working America’s income.
Comment by annoyed — February 23, 2008 @ 1:29 pm
Who cares. I will not be watching and have only seen afew of the movies that are up for awards. I enjoy movies and when they get good and entertaining I will probably watch some. As far as actors go there are few that have character on and off the screen. Denzel is good both on a off and I hope there will be more like him soon.
Comment by william — February 23, 2008 @ 2:01 pm
I have seen all of the nominated and many other movies. I enjoy escaping by going to the movies. For almost all of my adult life I looked forward to the Oscars, had oscar parties at home etc., enjoyed watching the “stars” go by on the red carpet etc. Usually we made bets on what and who would win. It was fun. Then all of the sudden when George Bush was elected President, I saw a completely different side of this show which revealed a bunch of self-centered arrogant mis-informed anti-American, Bush Bashing spoiled, morally bankrupt individuals who have NO clue as to what an ordinary person’s life is like. They couldn’t just take their MILLIONS of dollars for doing something they love to do and crave to do but they just had to force their ignorant political opinions on the viewers at home. Who do they think pays for their lifestyles and allows them to be in this business? Well its people like me. I am a Republican who is not some right wing racist nutjob but a person who truly enjoysmovies and appreciated real talent in actors, until they started making fun of anyone who doesn’t share their socialist anti-American anti-Bush fanaticism. Well guess what? Without people like me, you would not get to be rich and famous. Please please stop the political drivel spewing out of movies stars’ mouths. WHO ASKED YOU ABOUT YOUR POLITICS? Just make the movie, bank your millions and SHUT UP. There isn’t one place left without a loon waving signsabout War or Bush or Cheney and then on top of it all, we have to hear from these morons. If you don’t like the United States LEAVE.. They promised they would but they are all still here thinking we give a crap about what their politics are. Isn’t it enough that we pay 10.00 dollars to see your movies?? Please leave your opinions at home where you leave your brain. Whew I feel better. I might watch it anyway.
Comment by Karen — February 23, 2008 @ 2:01 pm
Hey A-Dub: When’s the last time you heard a conservative agenda coming out of Hollywood? Like never? And how far did you go in school? It’s political, not ploitical and Hannity, not Hanity. You are proof positive liberism causes brain damage.
Comment by Flyboy — February 23, 2008 @ 2:04 pm
Wow, interesting thread.
On one side you have the prime example of what the other side is saying. Hollywood is out of touch with its audience, meanwhile it is so much more intelligent (in its own mind) than its inferior audience, Hollywood’s minions cannot fathom the animosity directed toward them. Some of the liberal posters here consider the grammar of posters (being so flawless themselves, LOL) and disregard the comment based on that.
There will be no one watching the Oscars this year and it will be a vast right wing conspiracy. Hollywood is a bunch of kooks and losers! The only appeal they have is that of rubbernecking a wreck on the freeway. What awful piece of tripe will they toss out for public consumption this time? What gets promoted is a lottery from one of Dante’s rings of Hell.
The Oscars this year could be billed “The Emperor’s New Clothes”.
If you own a restaurant and sell lousy food, you lose customers.
If you sell cars that are always breaking down, you lose customers.
If you sell movies that insult the viewer, trivialize his values, and offer this all from the benefits of and ivory tower, there is no wonder at what you read in the comments, there is no wonder no one watches your awards, there is no wonder, because no one stands in awe of the paltriness of Hollywood’s achievements.
Sadly, we’ve all moved on, Hollywood. Thanks for Bob Hope, and Jimmy Stewart, for Grace Kelly, and Ingrid Bergman, for Gary Cooper and Clark Gable and Barbara Stanwyck. They all had political views, some republican and some democrat. They had tragedies in life, but they had too much dignity to inflict their bathroom scenes on an unsuspecting audience.
When movies moved into the bathroom in the storylines, it was recognition that what they were producing was only fit for a flush.
But - go ahead and call this a right wing rant. I miss the Hollywood that mattered. I miss the Hollywood that had a brain and a heart, and understood that loyalty at the boxoffice requires loyalty behind the screen before it can ask for loyalty in front of it.
Comment by Socratic Mirror — February 23, 2008 @ 2:15 pm
Who wants to see another display of extreme left wing sickness and political smears? Michael Moore is a liar and does not deserve an Oscar. I have been inside Cuban hospitals. They are disgusting.
Comment by Jose D — February 23, 2008 @ 2:27 pm
This is too funny.
What we have here is REAL America giving the clear answer to why Hollywood’s influence, credibility and AUDIENCE has dwindled.
The funny part is reading clueless liberal “true believers” try to give account as to why the vast majority of these posts are disgusted with Hollywood and their agenda.
They trot out well-worn conspiracy theories, grasping for any reason to discount these posts because they cannot CONCEIVE this outrage is true.
Face it, this IS how the the average American feels. The posts here are reasoned and articulate. I’m sure Nikki could confirm that the numerous URL’s are unique and not duplicates.
This strikes a chord for people who are sick of the counter-culture agendas Hollywood is trying to shove down our throats. You don’t speak on our behalf or to our values. We passionately speak up here because our only voice is to turn off the TV’s and stop going to movies, which we are doing.
To those that have ears let them hear..
Either open your eyes and read the writing on the wall or stick your head back in the sand. The decision is still yours.
Comment by Anonymous — February 23, 2008 @ 2:27 pm
I went back and read the article again. Could someone advise me on where I can get a job as a breast buffer? My 30 years of engineering is losing it’s luster. Are there any particular dangers with regard to the silicone / saline bags exploding?
Comment by FoghornLeghorn — February 23, 2008 @ 2:30 pm
Basically an industry party to pat itself on the back for a job well done???
No thanks, I will be watching reruns of Law and Order on NBC!!!
Comment by Tom — February 23, 2008 @ 2:30 pm
die hollywood.
Comment by fred — February 23, 2008 @ 2:35 pm
Hollywood just cannot make a decent picture these days and it’s sad. Transformers will never be another Terminator and Juno is just obnoxious. The only decent movies I have seen in the past 10 years were the Lord Of The Rings Trilogy. In fact, Holyywood(or Toronto these days?)has gotten so bad that I have resorted to Bollywood and let me tell you folks, the quality is so much better than Hollywood you will not believe it! Judging by Saawariya, Kabhi Kushi Kahbi Gham, Devdas and Veer Zaara I would say that Bollywood is at the same level as Hollywood was in 1939.
Comment by B.P. — February 23, 2008 @ 2:37 pm
Good riddance!
“If you’re 20 and not a liberal, you don’t have a heart. If you’re 30 and not a Conservative, you don’t have a brain.”
Comment by kevin67 — February 23, 2008 @ 2:40 pm
Lindsey Lohan should take a bow for the most “Razzies” ever…
Will Brittney make an appearance for no apparent reason…
Wonder if Wolfgang will have a food poisoning problem this year…
Does any one in America REALLLY care about another award ceremony?
Comment by Mike Parents — February 23, 2008 @ 3:29 pm
Because Hollywood actors, singers, etc have become
such a poor example for kids to follow, I can’t in
anyway support or watch this. Why give credit to
traitors, Communists, Facists, Christian bigotry,
drug and alcohol adhicts, sick minds, etc.
Comment by DoctorD — February 23, 2008 @ 3:42 pm
The Oscars are history ! The liberal “I hate America “panty boys like C-Looney are only loved by the left wing media and a few fans , and that is all. America bashing metrosexuals(bisexuals) alienate normal working class America, really noone cares about Hollywood . And how about unfunny Liberal Jew John Stewart (liebowitz) these left wing Jews , Stewart, Streisand, and the other thousands are reminiscent of the jews at concentration camps who would assist in the the genocide against their own families, They should form a new liberal jew rap group called L.I.D.O. = Last In The Oven! They are all fools and noone cares! rename the Oscars the Hugo for Chavez. Its sad more Hollywood stars visit Chavez than our own sons and daughters.
Comment by James Mason — February 23, 2008 @ 3:45 pm
The Oscars have been circling the drain for years. Micheal Moore winning and “educating” all us ignorants was like hearing a flush from a urinal . Al Gore getting his Oscar was like watching the water swirl faster and faster , and last year when the Oscar for Best Song went to “It’s hard out here for a PIMP” , it finally disappeared like the unwanted refuse it is. I can’t say it bothers me too much. I mean do I really need to have political opinions forced upon me on Oscar night too? No, I don’t . I am sick of biting my lip every time a Libtard gets up to accept an award and hear their opinions on politics today. Ever hear any Conservative viewpoints on that stage? Didn’t think so. Rambo and Die Hard were never nominated.
Just think of all the Carbon Credits the Libs can save by just canceling the show once and for all. Maybe there would be enough for all of Al’s posse to shut their traps for good. Ahhhh heaven.
Comment by bobbyvand — February 23, 2008 @ 3:58 pm
All of you are close-minded and cruel, with 20th century mindsets. The 21st century is no place for a provincial mindset and love-it-or-leave-it platitudes with regards to the United States.
The AMERICAN actors who make your AMERICAN films have the right as an AMERICAN to express their views, whether you agree with them or not…that’s the freedom of expression guaranteed within the Constitution. Just because you disagree with a point of view doesn’t mean it is entirely invalid.
Seriously, I’ve been reading Nikki’s blog for a year, and I’ve never seen such a disgusting display of conservatism since last I overheard a conversation years ago in high school.
I am NOT defending Hollywood, and I would much rather prefer the BEST films being awarded, and I think this year’s nominations did justice to the work produced in 2007 (for the most part).
Part of being an American, as you all seem to hold, is to crush the spirit of those who oppose you. The true meaning of being an American, however, is to express one’s self freely and truly, even if it is in opposition with one’s country. May extreme nationalism perish under the love and understanding of peace.
Comment by StlOscars08 — February 23, 2008 @ 3:58 pm
I DARE some brave soul in the Hollywood community to try making movies or television that makes an HONEST attempt to stand up for conservative(i.e. Traditional American) values and see what happens.
I can tell you what will happen. You’ll be ostracized by your buddies in the Industry but a huge success at the Box office and with the public.
But hey! You’ll be rich and perhaps pleasantly surprised at all the people who will want to be your new friend.. so go for it! I dare you.
Comment by Anonymous — February 23, 2008 @ 4:21 pm
Hollywood is dead! They have nothing to offer. They are out of touch with what people want to see. They force their views on us to say this is good, yet its CRAP. Hollywood is anti-american. Hate Pres. Bush and anything that is good. Yet Pres. Bush is trying..When terrorists strike in California some day don’t blame Pres. Bush for trying to keep the war out of America. Call your future Pres. Clinton or Obama. And tell them they were wrong and Bush had the right idea to keep the war of American Soil. Jon Stewart, really what has he done. He is an arm chair quarterback making a living complaining about others that are trying to do something. Stewart is afraid to make a stand…
Comment by Ronald — February 23, 2008 @ 4:22 pm
Who cares about any of this crap? The Oscars are rubbish, garbage, and basura. Nobody cares. A waste of time.
Comment by MikjeD — February 23, 2008 @ 4:31 pm
Don’t care one way or another, they glorify themselves and honor themselves ( what else is new) Oh and they spew anti stuff at or against there favorite gripes
Comment by DDDDDD — February 23, 2008 @ 4:33 pm
Hollywood is so much better than all of us. Can’t you people understand that these are the greatest entertainers on earth? We should all be in awe of their presence. I say there are not enough award shows for Hollywood. There should be an award show for each day of the year, that way we would all have something to watch every night and fawn over Julia’s fashions and Beyonce’s lady lumps. Then again, I have some wet paint that needs to be watched. The bashing of our president and American democracy will have to be done without me, one of the great unwashed masses yearning to be free of Hollywood’s bull.
Comment by OCKAP — February 23, 2008 @ 4:34 pm
The trouble with the Academy is that they stop making movies for the public and just made them for each other.
Roger Ebert also is taking payola for some of the crap he gives four stars too.
Comment by Scott in Chicago — February 23, 2008 @ 4:52 pm
Holy christ…now I remember why I usually don’t bother with the comments section. What is this? An evangelical, republican lovefest with bitterness up the wazoo? If you think the comments here represent the average person… Give me a break.
Comment by slow day — February 23, 2008 @ 4:54 pm
Who cares about the Oscars or any of the other award shows?!? It’s a lot like the NHL - when it’s cancelled NOBODY MISSES IT!
Comment by Who Cares — February 23, 2008 @ 4:56 pm
Frankly me dear….I don’t give a damn.
Comment by Al — February 23, 2008 @ 4:57 pm
I have’t watched the Oscars or Grammy’s in years and have no intentions of doing so this year either. I used to watch these award shows EVERY year and wouldn’t dream of missing any of them. Now, I am so tired of these stars who HATE their country and their President & in truth also HATE the troops who are fighting for their right to say the hateful things they are saying. How many of these haters have been to Iraq or Afghanistan to support & entertain the troops?!! How many of these rich & spoiled would ever dream of joining the military?! Perhaps they should look back at Hollywood of the past and some of the true greats. Maybe they need to look at the history of the Hollywood Canteen and all those wonderful PATRIOTIC stars. And where is today’s Bob Hope?! Whether they like the war or not, it is in the tradition of this GREAT COUNTRY to support the men and women who are fighting and to support the COMMANDER IN CHIEF during war time.
Though I have not always been a huge fan of Country Music, I will always support their award shows. These are the people with principals who almost all LOVE THEIR COUNTRY! Perhaps the folks in Hollywood need to get out in the real world and see how the simple folks live. Until then, I will continue to avoid the movies and all the outspoken stars who are in them.
Comment by Marianne — February 23, 2008 @ 5:03 pm
Never liked jon stewart as host. It just seems to attract a certain group of people. When I was younger the whole family couldn’t wait to watch them.
I think it has just become to political and not entertaining.Also I watch classic movie channel they really had to act back then and not depend on special effects and soundtacks.There are only a few actors today that I believe are any good,Johny Depp for example. Anyway I won’t be watching it.
Comment by 007 — February 23, 2008 @ 5:05 pm
Guess I’ll pop in a VIVID Video and watch it, instead of the Oscars. Randy Spears, now theirs an actor !!!
Plus his list of leading ladies changes all the time.
The AVM awards in Las Vegas in January are much more entertaining to view, and the categorys much more interesting to watch. Ciao Hollywood, hello San Fernando Valley.
Comment by Felix — February 23, 2008 @ 5:10 pm
God I hate it when Drudge links to a blog I read
All he has to do is point at something and his stupendously obnoxious audience leaps on it like he’s commanding them with “Hey all you generic idiot flyover-state conservatives! Time to unleash your tired-ass anti-Hollywood rants all over a blog you’ll never read again!”
Sorry for the interruption, back to RARGH LIBERAL HOLLYWOOD BLAAAGGGRRRHHHRGGGHHHHHH
Comment by Zac — February 23, 2008 @ 5:18 pm
I have not watched these things in 20 years. Actors are extremely liberal, Like children they have no idea the cost of freedom.
Their millions of dollars make it impossible for them to appreciate normal people and they show disdain for those who pay them to be actors
America provides them their millions and they hate the very foundation of the country the use
Comment by Ed Jones — February 23, 2008 @ 5:19 pm
And you damn kids stay off my lawn!
Comment by yeah! — February 23, 2008 @ 5:22 pm
I like pie. And movies that involve pie.
Comment by Lion — February 23, 2008 @ 5:35 pm
Hopefully no one will watch and this will mark the true beginning of the end of the crappy movie and television business. People like Michael Moors and Sean Penn dominate Hollywood and will likely be there spewing hatred of their country. John Stewart will be there egging them on. Who wants to watch that miserable pile of garbage. None of them deserve any awards.
Comment by Movie Hater — February 23, 2008 @ 5:39 pm
I am disgusted by the type of smut they are playing at the local picture show lately. Since they introduced those fancy new colour films I’ve been seeing more and more vulgar scenes, like this one reel it showed a womans knee, now that is just too much.
Comment by Slowpoke — February 23, 2008 @ 5:45 pm
If anything, this year’s Oscars is an unabashed celebration of conservative ideology. Just look at the best picture nominees:
Atonement — A film in which a servant boy (no doubt a Bolshevik) says dirty words, corrupts a proper lady and has unGodly premarital sex with her. As a result, he is jailed and then sent to war. Now that’s abstinence education.
Juno - Could there be a more pro-life movie? No one who has seen this movie will ever have an abortion. Just think of the fingernails!
Michael Clayton - If it wasn’t for lawyers, all of them perverts and criminals, the fictional U-North would be free to conduct its business in the blessed capitalist sys